The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. Remember that all medications, including over-the-counter, can cause or worsen certain chronic headaches. It is essential that you become aware of the alternative treatments, including stress management, which are important part of the comprehensive treatment. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

Medications for
Treating
Migraines

Prescription Medications to Treat Migraines

Triptans (Serotonin Agonists)

Common names include:

Sumatriptan
(Imitrex)

Almotriptan
(Axert)

Naratriptan
(Amerge)

Rizatriptan
(Maxalt)

Zolmitriptan
(Zomig)

Frovatriptan
(Frova)

Triptans are drugs that act similar to the brain chemical serotonin, which constricts blood vessels in the brain. For best results, these drugs should be taken at the first signs of migraine or cluster headache. Some are injectable and others are taken by mouth or by nasal spray. Do not use within 24 hours of taking ergotamine tartrate or similar medications. Do not take with MAO inhibitors.
Triptans should not be used if you have uncontrolled
hypertension
,
coronary artery disease
,
angina
, severe liver disease, or neurovascular disease.

Possible side effects include:

Dry mouth

Headache

Nausea

Tiredness

Sensation of burning or tingling

Ergot-based Preparations (Ergotamine Tartrate)

Common brand names include:

Ergomar

Cafergot

Migergot

Ergotamine tartrate constricts blood vessels. It helps offset blood vessel dilation (widening) during a migraine. Do not use within 24 hours of taking triptan drugs or serotonin agonists. .
Ergot preparations should not be used if you have
coronary artery disease
, uncontrolled
hypertension
,
kidney
or liver disease,
peripheral artery disease, or severe systemic infections.

Possible side effects include:

Nausea and vomiting

Feelings of coldness in hands and feet

Weakness and pain in the leg muscles

Dihydroergotamine

Common brand names include:

DHE 45

Migranal

Dihydroergotamine constricts dilated blood vessels. It is injected to prevent or stop a migraine headache. Do not take this drug long-term. Notify your doctor immediately if side effects occur.

Possible side effects include:

Nausea and vomiting

Feelings of coldness in hands and feet

Weakness and pain in the leg muscles

Chest pain

Risk of heart attack and stroke

Phenothiazines

Common names include:

Prochlorperazine
(Compazine, Compro)

Metoclopramide
(Reglan)

Certain phenothiazines have been FDA-approved for the treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with migraines.

Over-the-Counter Medications to Treat Migraines

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Common names include:

Naproxen sodium
(Aleve)

Ibuprofen
(Motrin)

Aspirin
(Bayer)

These drugs should not be used if you have
peptic ulcer disease, recent bleeding from the gut, kidney disease, or heart disease. These drugs work to control pain and inflammation.
Possible side effects include:

Rebound headache if pain reliever is taken on a regular basis

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Stomach upset

Analgesic Combinations

Excedrin Migraine (contains
aspirin
,
acetaminophen
, and caffeine)

Advil Migraine (contains
ibuprofen
)

Motrin Migraine (contains ibuprofen)

These drugs also work to control pain and inflammation. Possible side effects include:

Rebound headache if pain reliever is taken on a regular basis

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Stomach upset

Acetaminophen can cause liver problems if taken with alcohol. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

Medications for
Preventing
Migraines

Beta-Blockers

Common names include:

Propranolol (Inderal)

Metoprolol (Lopressor)

Timolol (Blocadren)

Beta-blockers are commonly used to treat high blood pressure, but are also used to prevent migraine headaches. Beta-blockers work by affecting the response to some nerve impulses in certain parts of the body. They also decrease the heart's need for blood and oxygen by reducing its workload.

Possible side effects include:

Dizziness

Drowsiness

Nausea

Vomiting

Upset stomach

Anticonvulsants

Common name:
Valproic acid
(Depakene)

Valproic acid may be used to treat migraine headaches. Your doctor will order periodic blood tests to check drug levels and liver function. This drug should not be used if you have severe liver disease.

Possible side effects include:

Sedation

Nausea and vomiting

Liver problems

Blood problems

Pancreatitis

Hyperammonemia

Increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior

Topiramate

Common name:
Topiramate
(Topamax)

Topiramate may be used to treat migraine headaches. Do not abruptly discontinue this drug.

Possible side effects include:

Dizziness

Problems with coordination and concentration

Fatigue

Parasthesias (tingling) often in the fingertips and toes

Kidney stones

Glaucoma

Other Medications for Treating Migraines

Tricyclic Antidepressants

Common name:
Amitriptyline
(Elavil, Endep)

Antidepressants are given for their pain-relieving abilities. Do not stop taking antidepressants without first checking with your doctor. These drugs should not be used if you have glaucoma, are recovering from a recent
heart attack
, or have used MAO inhibitors within two weeks.

Possible side effects include:

Blurred vision

Dry mouth

Dizziness, lightheadedness when standing up

Constipation

Weakness

Botulinum Toxin Injections

Botulinum toxin
is made from a type of bacteria. The toxin blocks the chemical signals from the nerves to muscles. This will decrease the muscle contraction.
Botulinum toxin injections
(or botox injections) can be used to prevent migraines.
This treatment may also help to decrease the duration and intensity of migraines if they do occur.

Medications for
Treating
Cluster Headaches

There are many medicines that may be prescribed to treat cluster headaches. Examples include:

Oxygen therapy

Sumatriptan
or other triptans

Octreotide
(given as an injection)

Medications for
Preventing
Cluster Headache

Other medicinesmay be given to prevent or reduce the frequency of headaches. Examples of these drugs include:

Medications for
Treating
Sinus Headache

Antibiotics

Common name:
Amoxicillin
(Amoxil)

Antibiotics may be ordered to treat a sinus infection caused by bacteria. Take with food to decrease stomach upset. It is very important that you finish the complete course of therapy. Do not stop taking the antibiotics even if you feel better.

Possible side effects include:

Upset stomach

Diarrhea

Vaginal yeast infections

Decongestants

Common names include:

Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride
(Sudafed)

Phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine)

Decongestants may be given to treat
sinusitis
. Decongestants open clogged nasal passages, allowing the sinuses to drain. Do not use these drugs longer or more often than directed. Overuse of decongestant nose sprays may increase swelling and make your symptoms worse.

Possible side effects include:

Increased blood pressure and pulse

Anxiety

Palpitations

Special Considerations

Whenever you are taking a prescription medication, take the following precautions:

Take them as directed—not more, not less, not at a different time.

Do not stop taking them without consulting your doctor.

Don’t share them with anyone else.

Know what effects and side effects to expect, and report them to your doctor.

If you are taking more than one drug, even if it is over-the-counter, be sure to check with a physician or pharmacist about drug interactions.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided. Remember that all medications, including over-the-counter, can cause or worsen certain chronic headaches. It is essential that you become aware of the alternative treatments, including stress management, which are important part of the comprehensive treatment. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

Medications for
Treating
Migraines

Prescription Medications to Treat Migraines

Triptans (Serotonin Agonists)

Common names include:

Sumatriptan
(Imitrex)

Almotriptan
(Axert)

Naratriptan
(Amerge)

Rizatriptan
(Maxalt)

Zolmitriptan
(Zomig)

Frovatriptan
(Frova)

Triptans are drugs that act similar to the brain chemical serotonin, which constricts blood vessels in the brain. For best results, these drugs should be taken at the first signs of migraine or cluster headache. Some are injectable and others are taken by mouth or by nasal spray. Do not use within 24 hours of taking ergotamine tartrate or similar medications. Do not take with MAO inhibitors.
Triptans should not be used if you have uncontrolled
hypertension
,
coronary artery disease
,
angina
, severe liver disease, or neurovascular disease.

Possible side effects include:

Dry mouth

Headache

Nausea

Tiredness

Sensation of burning or tingling

Ergot-based Preparations (Ergotamine Tartrate)

Common brand names include:

Ergomar

Cafergot

Migergot

Ergotamine tartrate constricts blood vessels. It helps offset blood vessel dilation (widening) during a migraine. Do not use within 24 hours of taking triptan drugs or serotonin agonists. .
Ergot preparations should not be used if you have
coronary artery disease
, uncontrolled
hypertension
,
kidney
or liver disease,
peripheral artery disease, or severe systemic infections.

Possible side effects include:

Nausea and vomiting

Feelings of coldness in hands and feet

Weakness and pain in the leg muscles

Dihydroergotamine

Common brand names include:

DHE 45

Migranal

Dihydroergotamine constricts dilated blood vessels. It is injected to prevent or stop a migraine headache. Do not take this drug long-term. Notify your doctor immediately if side effects occur.

Possible side effects include:

Nausea and vomiting

Feelings of coldness in hands and feet

Weakness and pain in the leg muscles

Chest pain

Risk of heart attack and stroke

Phenothiazines

Common names include:

Prochlorperazine
(Compazine, Compro)

Metoclopramide
(Reglan)

Certain phenothiazines have been FDA-approved for the treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with migraines.

Over-the-Counter Medications to Treat Migraines

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Common names include:

Naproxen sodium
(Aleve)

Ibuprofen
(Motrin)

Aspirin
(Bayer)

These drugs should not be used if you have
peptic ulcer disease, recent bleeding from the gut, kidney disease, or heart disease. These drugs work to control pain and inflammation.
Possible side effects include:

Rebound headache if pain reliever is taken on a regular basis

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Stomach upset

Analgesic Combinations

Excedrin Migraine (contains
aspirin
,
acetaminophen
, and caffeine)

Advil Migraine (contains
ibuprofen
)

Motrin Migraine (contains ibuprofen)

These drugs also work to control pain and inflammation. Possible side effects include:

Rebound headache if pain reliever is taken on a regular basis

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Stomach upset

Acetaminophen can cause liver problems if taken with alcohol. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

Medications for
Preventing
Migraines

Beta-Blockers

Common names include:

Propranolol (Inderal)

Metoprolol (Lopressor)

Timolol (Blocadren)

Beta-blockers are commonly used to treat high blood pressure, but are also used to prevent migraine headaches. Beta-blockers work by affecting the response to some nerve impulses in certain parts of the body. They also decrease the heart's need for blood and oxygen by reducing its workload.

Possible side effects include:

Dizziness

Drowsiness

Nausea

Vomiting

Upset stomach

Anticonvulsants

Common name:
Valproic acid
(Depakene)

Valproic acid may be used to treat migraine headaches. Your doctor will order periodic blood tests to check drug levels and liver function. This drug should not be used if you have severe liver disease.

Possible side effects include:

Sedation

Nausea and vomiting

Liver problems

Blood problems

Pancreatitis

Hyperammonemia

Increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior

Topiramate

Common name:
Topiramate
(Topamax)

Topiramate may be used to treat migraine headaches. Do not abruptly discontinue this drug.

Possible side effects include:

Dizziness

Problems with coordination and concentration

Fatigue

Parasthesias (tingling) often in the fingertips and toes

Kidney stones

Glaucoma

Other Medications for Treating Migraines

Tricyclic Antidepressants

Common name:
Amitriptyline
(Elavil, Endep)

Antidepressants are given for their pain-relieving abilities. Do not stop taking antidepressants without first checking with your doctor. These drugs should not be used if you have glaucoma, are recovering from a recent
heart attack
, or have used MAO inhibitors within two weeks.

Possible side effects include:

Blurred vision

Dry mouth

Dizziness, lightheadedness when standing up

Constipation

Weakness

Botulinum Toxin Injections

Botulinum toxin
is made from a type of bacteria. The toxin blocks the chemical signals from the nerves to muscles. This will decrease the muscle contraction.
Botulinum toxin injections
(or botox injections) can be used to prevent migraines.
This treatment may also help to decrease the duration and intensity of migraines if they do occur.

Medications for
Treating
Cluster Headaches

There are many medicines that may be prescribed to treat cluster headaches. Examples include:

Oxygen therapy

Sumatriptan
or other triptans

Octreotide
(given as an injection)

Medications for
Preventing
Cluster Headache

Other medicinesmay be given to prevent or reduce the frequency of headaches. Examples of these drugs include:

Medications for
Treating
Sinus Headache

Antibiotics

Common name:
Amoxicillin
(Amoxil)

Antibiotics may be ordered to treat a sinus infection caused by bacteria. Take with food to decrease stomach upset. It is very important that you finish the complete course of therapy. Do not stop taking the antibiotics even if you feel better.

Possible side effects include:

Upset stomach

Diarrhea

Vaginal yeast infections

Decongestants

Common names include:

Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride
(Sudafed)

Phenylephrine (Neo-Synephrine)

Decongestants may be given to treat
sinusitis
. Decongestants open clogged nasal passages, allowing the sinuses to drain. Do not use these drugs longer or more often than directed. Overuse of decongestant nose sprays may increase swelling and make your symptoms worse.

Possible side effects include:

Increased blood pressure and pulse

Anxiety

Palpitations

Special Considerations

Whenever you are taking a prescription medication, take the following precautions:

Take them as directed—not more, not less, not at a different time.

Do not stop taking them without consulting your doctor.

Don’t share them with anyone else.

Know what effects and side effects to expect, and report them to your doctor.

If you are taking more than one drug, even if it is over-the-counter, be sure to check with a physician or pharmacist about drug interactions.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.